'American Idol' Top 3 Revealed: Who Made It and Who Was Eliminated

Nathan Ross
May 13, 2025
With only a few sleeps left until the next "American Idol" is crowned, Season 23 has narrowed down its contestants to the Top 3.
'American Idol' Top 3 Revealed: Who Made It and Who Was Eliminated

As American Idol Season 23 gears up for its electrifying finale on May 18, the competition has officially revealed its final three contestants: John Foster, Jamal Roberts, and Breanna Nix. Following a dramatic elimination during Disney Night in Episode 17 on May 12, guitarists Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis were sent home, concluding their journeys as part of the Top 5.  


Disney Night Showcases Standout Performances

The penultimate episode featured a second Disney-themed showcase, with contestants performing two songs each under the mentorship of Tony Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda. Highlights of the evening included:  

  • Thunderstorm Artis delivering a soulful acoustic rendition while showcasing his guitar skills.  
  • Slater Nalley stepping out of his comfort zone by abandoning his signature instrument to reinterpret a Randy Newman classic.  
  • Breanna Nix bouncing back from early lyrical struggles with a heartfelt performance of a Tarzan ballad, moving her husband to tears.  
  • John Foster emphasizing his country roots through a modern cowboy persona.  
  • Jamal Roberts infusing R&B flair into a timeless Beauty and the Beast track.

Season 22 winner Iam Tongi also made a special appearance, performing in celebration of Disney's upcoming live-action Lilo & Stitch.  


Finale Preview: Star-Studded Performances Await

While Nalley and Artis fell short of the Top 3, they will reunite with the season's Top 14 contestants for a final group performance during the May 18 finale. The event promises a lineup of high-profile guest artists, including Jelly Roll, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Holliday, and Goo Goo Dolls, alongside judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Katy Perry, who will take the stage for live performances. Additional acts feature Good Charlotte, Jessica Simpson, Josh Groban, and Grammy-winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin.  


Fans can expect a thrilling conclusion as Foster, Roberts, and Nix compete for the title, capping off a season marked by memorable moments and exceptional talent. The finale airs Sunday at 8 p.m. EDT/PDT on ABC.  


Correction: A previous version misidentified contestants as judges. The judges for Season 23 are Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie.